Firefighting Helps Recruiter Serve and Engage Comunity, RecruitBy Tom Conning, USAREC, Seattle BattalionSept. 19, 2014Army recruiters use a variety of tools and techniques to search for Army or Army Reserve applicants. Some find activities outside the normal duty day to help with recruiting, including substitute teaching, volunteering as youth mentors, or joining car or motorcycle enthusiast clubs.

An Olympia, Wash., recruiter volunteers as a firefighter to help him find quality Army Reserve enlistees. But that wasn't Sgt. 1st Class Keith Knittel's primary motivation.“I became a volunteer firefighter to benefit my local community and occupy my free time with a positive activity," said Knittel. "Fire and EMT service may be a permanent fixture in my life, but for now I just enjoy the challenge and the reward that comes with service to others."

Being a firefighter has helped him recruit. "I am currently expecting a referral from a fellow firefighter whose son attends one of our tougher-to-penetrate schools," he said. "I am still learning how to best take advantage of the situation without overstepping my bounds."

"[Being a firefighter] helps because he is able to serve as a member of his community where he lives while simultaneously serving in the Army," Jacobs said. "Even though his life has been filled with challenges, he never fails to realize the important role of his contribution to the organization and community alike."

“Knittel's military background gives him a different perspective and has helped him progress as a firefighter,” said Jamieson. “He's willing to step up to the plate, better his education and skills and shows leadership within his rank.”Since completing the Rescue Recruit Academy in December 2013, Knittel has completed his Firefighter 1 written and practical test and Hazmat Operations written test. He still needs to complete a Hazmat Operations practical test in order to receive his Firefighter 1 certification.

"I have grown to appreciate what it takes to humble myself during the process of learning the skills I need in firefighting," said Knittel. "My department has a great deal of knowledge within its ranks. I work with selfless and committed individuals who have very little to gain from their investment of time and effort."